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Cruise News - February 8, 2010

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In addition to the charter to provide accommodations for the duration of the Olympic Games, the company said it was cancelling a pre cruise voyage, scheduled for 6-10 February from LA to Vancouver, the post cruise voyage, scheduled for 2-6 March from Vancouver to LA

In the statement, Newwest apologized to guests and said that they would be issuing refunds and that anyone who had booked a room on Norwegian Star during the charter should contact them at 877.254.2010 or 780.450.1555.

Guests booked on the original inaugural season sail date of December 12, 2010, will be contacted by their travel agent or a Royal Caribbean representative, and given the opportunity to move their cruise vacation to the new sailing of December 5.

Booked guests who wish to take the December 5 sailing will be re-accommodated in the same stateroom and category, and the cruise fare will be the lower of either the fare paid or current prices. Guests booked on the December 12, 2010 sailing will have until the end of February 2010 to opt to change their cruise to the December 5 sailing and ensure they keep the same stateroom.

Carnival Fascination operates Jacksonville's only year-round cruise schedule, carrying approximately 170,000 passengers a year. On this program, four-day cruises departing Thursdays visit Freeport and Nassau, The Bahamas; five-day cruises departing Mondays call at Key West, Fla., and Nassau; and five-day voyages departing Saturdays visit the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay and Nassau.

"Our Jacksonville-based cruises are a great option for those seeking a convenient, high quality vacation at a tremendous value and these new features will enhance the Carnival Fascination's already strong appeal with consumers," said Gerry Cahill, Carnival's president and CEO.

Added Rick Ferrin, JAXPORT's CEO, "The Fascination has proved to be a tremendous draw for cruise passengers from throughout the southeastern U.S. with the ship typically sailing at 100 percent capacity. This package of new amenities will refresh the experience for repeat customers and enhance the experience for first-time cruisers. It's a win-win situation for all of us."

Exciting Top Deck Features - Carnival Fascination's multi-million dollar refurbishment included a total transformation of its open decks, which now feature a massive new WaterWorks aqua park on Verandah Deck. This sprawling, all-ages facility includes an enclosed 300-foot-long Twister water slide full of exhilarating twists and turns, two 82-foot-long racing slides, and a splash zone for kids. The ship's Lido Deck pool was also renovated with a colorful tropical theme featuring oversized umbrellas, vibrant tile work, thatched roofing and huge stylized palm trees, creating a relaxing resort-style ambiance.

New Balcony Accommodations - Ninety-eight balconies were also added to existing accommodations during the dry dock, creating spacious 230-square-foot balcony staterooms that provide the ideal vantage point for viewing the tropical scenery. Sixty-two of the new balcony staterooms are located aft with several of these featuring extended balconies, while 24 are located mid-ship and 12 near the stern. Several suites were also retrofitted with larger, extended balconies.

New Adults-Only Retreat - Another popular "Evolutions of Fun" element added during the dry dock was an adults-only retreat called Serenity, which is located on Promenade Deck aft, providing magnificent ocean vistas. Designed as an oceangoing oasis for relaxation, this area features a tropical design with teak-style decking, colorful umbrellas, and thatched roofing, along with two oversized whirlpools. Guests can relax in comfortable chaise lounges and chairs while enjoying frozen drinks and other icy concoctions.

Dining Enhancements - Delicious new dining options were added to the ship's casual poolside restaurant, Coconut Grove Bar & Grill. These include a Mongolian wok venue where guests can select their favorite meat, sauce, vegetables and other ingredients and watch as a chef creates their custom-designed stir fry dish, and a rotisserie featuring roasted chicken and traditional side dishes.

Additionally, the Sensation and Imagination main dining rooms were refurbished with new carpeting, upholstery and other cosmetic enhancements. The Sensation dining room, located forward, was also reconfigured for Your Time Dining providing guests the option of open seating between 5:45 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. nightly.

"The Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico and Hawaii all offer extraordinary cruise experiences that include exotic ports, warm water beaches and exciting shore excursions," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Each region is historically and culturally different so guests can choose from six- to 25-day cruises for a perfect warm weather vacation."

Nine ships -- including the new ms Nieuw Amsterdam -- will sail 142 cruises to the eastern, western and southern Caribbean. Six ships will feature 25 full-transit Panama Canal cruises. Four ships will offer 40 cruises to the popular Mexican Riviera and Sea of Cortez. And ms Zaandam will add 11 among the Hawaiian islands.

A leader in cruises of 10 days or longer, Holland America Line's Caribbean itineraries range from six to 25 days. Nieuw Amsterdam, ms Eurodam, ms Ryndam and ms Westerdam offer six- and seven-day western, eastern or southern itineraries while the ms Noordam, ms Zuiderdam, ms Maasdam and ms Prinsendam feature 10- to 25-day explorations of the southern and eastern Caribbean.

All cruises sail roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale or Tampa from October 2010 through April 2011 with 14 holiday cruises in late December. Many departures are designed so guests can combine different seven-day Caribbean sailings to offer a more in-depth 14-day exploration. They also can combine two 10-day Noordam Southern Caribbean sailings to create a truly memorable 20-day Collector's Cruise. Maasdam offers 21-, 24- and 25-day Collectors' Cruises.

Holland America's 10-day cruises to the southern Caribbean feature three itinerary options. Wayfarer itineraries highlight the islands of St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Barbados and Martinique while Seafarer cruises showcase the Turks & Caicos Islands, Dominican Republic, Bonaire, Curaçao and Aruba. Nineteen Sunfarer itineraries combine some of these enticing destinations with Panama Canal cruising.

Aboard Maasdam, guests enjoy unique 10-day eastern and 11- and 14-day southern Caribbean itineraries roundtrip Fort Lauderdale. The eastern itinerary visits San Juan, Puerto Rico; Gustavia, St. Barts; Rosseau, Dominica; St. John's, Antigua; St. Thomas, Virgin Islands; and Half Moon Cay. Both southern routes call at islands that can feature Half Moon Cay, St. Croix, St. Kitts, St. Vincent, St. Barts, Martinique, and St. Maarten en route to Barbados. The 14-day option will also sail to the ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao.

Popular six- and seven-day cruises explore the eastern, western and southern Caribbean, some including Central American ports. Itineraries may include the Turks and Caicos Islands; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Grand Cayman; Willemstad, Curacao; Oranjestad, Aruba; Falmouth, Jamaica; Belize City, Belize; Roatan, Honduras; and Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico.

Most Caribbean itineraries call at Holland America Line's award-winning private island, Half Moon Cay, which continues to be the line's highest-rated Caribbean port of call. Here guests can enjoy activities such as the guided AquaTrax watercraft tour, stingray adventure, and a horseback riding and swimming excursion.

Transit an Historic Engineering Feat on Panama Canal Cruises Holland America Line features 25 full-transit cruises though the canal from fall 2010 through spring 2011. Six ships - Statendam, Westerdam, Maasdam, Zuiderdam, Ryndam, ms Rotterdam and ms Amsterdam - offer itineraries ranging from 14 to 30 days. Cruises depart Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver, British Columbia.

he 14-day Panama Canal Adventurer and Explorer itineraries feature ports in the Mexican Riviera, Central America and Caribbean that may include Fuerte Amador (Panama City); Puerto Vallarta, Huatulco, Puerto Chiapas, Acapulco and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica; Cartagena, Colombia; and Oranjestad, Aruba. Longer cruises may add Grand Cayman; Corinto, Nicaragua; Santa Marta, Colombia; and the San Blas Islands of Panama. Guests may also combine east and westbound crossings for an all-inclusive 28-day Collector's voyage, featuring in-depth exploration of the Panama Canal and surrounding regions with two complete transits.

For an extensive exploration, the Apr. 17 Rotterdam transit includes several ports in South America en route to a two-night stay in Callao, the gateway to Lima, Peru. The 30-day cruise, roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale, also visits both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of Central America.

From fall 2010 to spring 2011 Holland America Line is featuring 36 six- to 12-day cruises to the popular Mexican Riviera, plus four ranging from 10 to 14 days that highlight the Sea of Cortez with optional tours to famous Copper Canyon.

ms Oosterdam sails one six-day and several seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises roundtrip from San Diego in fall and winter/spring. The Vista-class ship cruises first through wildlife-rich Bahia Magdalena and then visits the lively ports of Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas. Oosterdam also offers a 14-day Sea of Cortez itinerary from San Diego to Vancouver, British Columbia, in the spring.

ms Zaandam features 10-, 11- and 14-day cruises departing roundtrip from San Diego for the Sea of Cortez and Mexican Riviera in winter and spring 2011. Guests visit Cabo San Lucas, Loreto, Guaymas, Topolobampo, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta on the Sea of Cortez itineraries. From Topolobampo, the highlight is the full-day optional excursion via rail deep into spectacular Copper Canyon.

In addition, ms Rotterdam offers a 12-day holiday cruise and ms Amsterdam sails two six-day cruises to the Mexican

San Diego is also the convenient homeport for roundtrip cruises to Hawaii. From October 2010 through April 2011, Zaandam offers 11 Circle Hawaii cruises that range from 14 to 18 days, including one holiday sailing. Departures mostly sail roundtrip from San Diego; one sails in April 2011 roundtrip from Vancouver, British Columbia in the Pacific Northwest. In October 2010, Zaandam features a 15-day Circle Hawaii sailing from Vancouver to San Diego.

The cruises call at four main islands, including Hilo, Hawaii; Honolulu, Oahu; Nawiliwili, Kauai; and Lahaina, Maui. The October 2010 15-day sailing calls on these ports and also at Kona with an evening cruise by Kilauea Volcano.

Rotterdam adds four 30- and 31-day Circle Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas voyages that sail roundtrip from San Diego.

"When Cunard began its Transatlantic liner service 170 years ago, it began a tradition of bridging the United Kingdom and the United States. With this programme, we will bring to life and explore the historical connection between these two countries with our guests, who have expressed great interest in the subject," said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. "Additionally, the Special Relationship series further underscores Cunard's commitment to bringing its guests not only legendary voyages aboard the most famous ocean liners in the world, but also engaging and intellectual pursuits during their journey."

Joining the 15 April Crossing will be Iwan Morgan, professor of U.S. Studies and head of U.S. Programmes at the Institute for the Study of the Americas at the University of London. The political scientist also has been published widely in various fields of modern U.S. political history and economy. His latest book, The Age of Deficits Presidents and Unbalanced Budgets from Jimmy Carter to George W. Bush, was published at the end of 2009.

Kenneth T. Walsh, chief White House correspondent for U.S. News & World Report, is scheduled to sail on the 1 June Transatlantic Crossing. He has covered the residencies of Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and, currently, Barack Obama. Walsh is the author of four books focused on presidential topics and has won the two most prestigious awards for White House coverage - the Aldo Beckman Award in 1991 and the Gerald R. Ford Prize for Distinguished Reporting on the Presidency in 1992 and 1998.

Sailing aboard the 22 April and 25 June Crossings is Jeffrey Weinberg, who has served each of the last seven U.S. presidents as a legislative attorney at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Executive Office of the President. While onboard, Weinberg will be leading discussions on the following topics: insights into the Obama administration, stengths and weaknesses of the governments of the U.S. and the U.K., and "tools" that are available to the President to enhance his effectiveness.

Additional programme participants will be announced in the coming months. Other scheduled voyages featuring Special Relationship speakers include:

• 12 September
• 1 October
• 10 November

The Special Relationship series is part of Cunard Insights, the enrichment programme that introduces guests to stimulating experts and accomplished visionaries who reflect the Line's heritage of adventure and prestige. Through a series of lectures, Q&A's, social gatherings and workshops, guests connect with personalities who have achieved notable distinction in areas including history, world affairs, science, arts and literature. The Insights programme underscores Cunard's longstanding view that onboard entertainment should afford guests a provocative and rewarding cerebral experience.

Company	Today's Closing Price	Change (since last week)
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL)	33.16	- 1.19%%
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL)	25.16	- 0.12%
Star Cruises (HKSE:0678.HK)	1.67	- 9.73%

Cruise News Trivia Question:
This week we have another visual Cruise Trivia Question. The picture below was taken from the beach in Nassau. There are five cruise ships in the picture, can you name them all?

Click here for a larger version.

Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to cruise2008@travelpage.com

Last Week's Question
Which famous former liner served as James Bond's headquarters in the film "The Man with the Golden Gun"?

Answer - The ship in question was the wreck of the Seawise University (ex Queen Elizabeth). The ship caught fire and sunk in Hong Kong Harbour (arson?) in 1972. The wreck was scrapped a few years later.
courtesy of kevmar@gibtelecom.net

Cruise News - February 1, 2010

Guests scheduled to sail on the Feb. 13 or 18 voyages will have the option of receiving a future cruise credit or full refund of their cruise fare. A $100 shipboard credit will be provided to those guests who were scheduled on the Feb. 13 voyage while those on the Feb. 18 departure will receive a $75 shipboard credit. The shipboard credit can be used on a future cruise departing prior to Dec. 15, 2011. For guests with independent air transportation, Carnival will reimburse up to $200 per person in the form of a shipboard credit for airline change fees when rebooking a future cruise. Travel agent commissions will be protected.

Additionally, three other cruises taking place prior to the dry dock will now operate modified itineraries. The five-day cruise departing Jan. 30 will now visit Cozumel and Costa Maya instead of Ocho Rios and Grand Cayman. The four-day cruise departing Feb. 4 will visit Cozumel and cancel the scheduled call in Key West; and the five-day cruise departing Feb. 8 will now replace the scheduled call in Grand Turk with a stop at Freeport, along with visits to Nassau and Half Moon Cay. Although the itineraries for these voyages were modified because of the propulsion problem, all of the Carnival Destiny's normal dining, activity and entertainment options will be available.

Guests booked prior to Jan. 25 who sail on these three modified voyages will receive a $50 per person shipboard credit. If guests elect to cancel, they will have the option to receive a full refund or a future cruise credit equal to the amount of their cruise fare. Travel agent commission will be protected for cancellations on these cruises.

"We sincerely apologize for the impact of these changes on our guests' vacations plans and wish to thank them for their understanding," said Gerry Cahill, Carnival's president and CEO.

"In bringing the ship to Europe during her second season, we are combining the excitement of Norwegian Epic with a very popular European itinerary," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's chief executive officer. "With her world-class entertainment, wide range of accommodations, incredible amenities and plethora of dining options, Norwegian Epic will offer the best cruise experience for a wide-range of travelers looking to enjoy Europe in a whole new way."

Following her inaugural season, Norwegian Epic will continue sailing her alternating seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami, Florida through April 30, 2011. On May 7, 2011, the ship will depart Miami on an 11-day transatlantic crossing to Barcelona, Spain with one stop in Ponta Delgada, Azores. Upon her arrival in Barcelona on May 18, 2011, the ship will sail a four-day Western Mediterranean sailing with stops in Marseille, France and Palma, Majorca, Spain. She will then sail a series of 22 seven-day Western Mediterranean cruises from Barcelona through October 16, 2011. A 13-day transatlantic sailing from Barcelona to Miami, Florida is scheduled for October 23, 2011 with stops in Ponta Delgada, Azores and St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. Once back in Miami, Norwegian Epic will sail a series of 23 seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises from November 5, 2011 through April 7, 2012. Ports of call on the Eastern Caribbean itinerary include: Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas, along with two full days at sea.

These additions, announced today, one year from the maiden voyage of the Disney Dream, offer new experiences for guests of all ages.

On Goofy's Sports Deck, the magic tees off on deck 13 with Goofy's Golf – a miniature golf course where "lessons" featuring Goofy and his son, Max, lead guests through nine themed holes of wacky fun. Each hole offers special golf instructions – with a goofy twist. Lessons include:
• "Handling a dog leg" – Guests avoid a fire hydrant and use Pluto's dog bone to guide them to the hole.
• "Stuck in the rough" – Goofy shows golfers how to avoid the tall turf and steer clear of a lawn mower.
• "Reading the green" – Stacks of books and a large magnifying glass are obstacles to circumvent on this undulating green.
• "Attacking the green" – Yo ho, yo ho! Golfers and landlubbers take a swashbuckling approach to sinking their putt on this pirate-themed hole.

Guests can choose to use the Goofy or Max tee on each hole, offering twice the fun. Family-friendly competitions and tournaments will keep the excitement on par while quirky golf clubs, some crooked and bent, will challenge golfers to stay on course. Goofy and Max may even swing by to interact with guests and offer some tips on club selection, stance or just goofing around.

Also on Goofy's Sports Deck, two digital sports simulators provide a variety of virtual game experiences such as soccer, tennis, basketball, golf and more. With the simulators, guests can kick, swing and throw, participating in favorite high-action sports without the hassle of chasing the ball.

Max's Courts are two mini-sized sports courts for little ones to enjoy soccer, basketball or group play. There's full-court basketball that may also be transformed into a mini soccer pitch or volleyball court, plus table tennis and foosball tables. A walking track rings Goofy's Sports Deck.

Nemo's Reef - Little ones discover oceans of fun at this fanciful water-play area overflowing with pop jets, bubblers and lovable underwater friends like Nemo, Dory, Marlin and other favorites from the Disney•Pixar film, "Finding Nemo."

Shaded for protection from the sun and featuring a soft wet-deck surface, the 1,500-square-foot Nemo's Reef is a place for children to cool off and play among colorful, interactive figures that move and spray water. Children will delight as they splash alongside Nemo swimming in a sea anemone, glide down a pint-sized water slide shaped like Mr. Ray and frolic near Pearl the octopus who "inks" herself with a mist of water. Kids can even get soaked in a water curtain that undulates back and forth like the EAC (East Australian Current).

Nemo's Reef is surrounded by a glass enclosure, with a main guest entrance and a wheelchair-accessible entrance.

Quiet Cove Pool and Cove Bar - Reserved exclusively for guests 18 and older, the Quiet Cove Pool and Cove Bar is a retreat for adults to sunbathe and swim, indulge in a cool drink or enjoy a relaxing dip in a nearby hot tub overlooking the ocean.

One of three fresh-water pools on the Disney Dream, Quiet Cove Pool features varying depths for taking a dip, sunbathing in comfort and enjoying a poolside cocktail. A series of connected circular pools includes a 4-foot-deep plunge pool and a 6-inch-deep sunbathing pool with built-in loungers and a mister. Guests also can splash up to Cove Bar, which is part of the pool, and sip a refreshing beverage.

Nearby, on the sides of deck 11, guests can soak in a whirlpool hot tub while overlooking the ocean. Four "infinity" whirlpool hot tubs – two for families and two just for adults – provide spectacular views of the ocean beyond.

AquaDuck and More! - The Disney Dream will feature the world's first shipboard water coaster – AquaDuck – which will sweep guests away on an exhilarating high-speed flume ride featuring twists, turns, drops, uphill acceleration and river rapids – all while traversing the upper decks of the ship.

Donald Pool is the place for families to gather and enjoy all of the activities up on deck. Overlooking Donald Pool is the giant Funnel Vision LED screen – more than 30 feet wide and 18 feet high – showing Disney films and other live broadcast events. A retractable floor extends over the pool, providing an ideal dance floor for deck parties.

Continuing a favorite feature of the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the Disney Dream will also have a Mickey Pool for children. The shape of Mickey Pool resembles the beloved Disney character, and an oversized version of Mickey's hand supports a yellow winding slide that splashes down near the pool.

As an added convenience for parents with children of different ages, Donald Pool, Mickey Pool and Nemo's Reef are all located within the same vicinity, on deck 11 between the forward and aft funnel.

"The City is proud to welcome Queen Victoria to San Francisco's waterfront as we so warmly welcomed her sister ship, Queen Mary 2, in 2007. Her arrival creates work for our longshoremen and women and business for our hotels, restaurants and shops," said Mayor Newsom. "As part of our commitment to create jobs and economic vitality, the City is working diligently to renovate San Francisco's Pier 27 into an international cruise terminal. We invite Cunard and all the lines to return often to this world-renowned cruise destination," added Mayor Newsom.

"We are once again delighted by the warm welcome we received today, and it is with great pride that we now add San Francisco to the list of more than 150 different ports visited since Queen Victoria began service two years ago," said Captain Paul Wright, Master, Queen Victoria. "Our maiden call today marks Queen Victoria's third maiden call on this world voyage and our only U.S. maiden call of the eight in total on this around-the-world-journey," he added.

Also welcoming Queen Victoria to the City by the Bay was the CEO and President of the San Francisco Convention and Visitors Bureau, Joe D'Alessandro; President of the San Francisco Port Commission, Rodney Fong; and the President and CEO of Nautilus International Holding Corporate (parent company of Metro Cruise Services), James Callahan.

Queen Victoria continues her third World Voyage upon departing San Francisco this evening at approximately 6:00pm, crossing the Pacific en route to her next port of call: Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii.

Queen Victoria will spend more time on the west coast in winter 2011, sailing her Americas voyages, when she will make two transits through the Panama Canal, two roundtrip voyages from Los Angeles to Hawaii, and her first short Getaway voyage to Mexico.

The event, which was attended by dozens of friends and co-workers, served to pay tribute to the captain's long and distinguished maritime career which spans nearly 50 years, including the past 34 years at Carnival. During the reception, Captain Casula was given a number of commemorative gifts, including a traditional maritime clock presented by Carnival's Senior Vice President of Marine Operations Brendan Corrigan (left) and President and CEO Gerry Cahill (right) pictured here.

Captain Casula joined Carnival in 1976 as first officer and, after moving up through the ranks, was named captain in 1986. Over the course of his 34-year Carnival career, he commanded virtually every vessel in the company's fleet.

Prior to joining Carnival, Casula worked for eight years at Costa Cruises and five years on various cargo and tanker ships at Carlo Cameli Lin

Revenues were unchanged year over year at $1.5 billion for the fourth quarter of both 2009 and 2008. Net Yields decreased 7.2% from the prior year or 9.7% after adjusting for year over year changes in currency. Net Yields were at the upper end of previous guidance due to strength in both ticket and onboard revenues.

Net Cruise Costs per APCD ("NCC") decreased 10.5% from the prior year or 12.4% after adjusting for changes in currency. NCC excluding fuel, declined 8.8% from the prior year or 11.2% after adjusting for changes in currency.

Fuel costs were $5.0 million higher than the company's previous calculations. Fourth quarter pricing averaged $500 per metric ton and consumption was 325.2 thousand metric tons.

"Good cost discipline and better than expected revenues have enabled us to end 2009 on a decidedly upbeat note," said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer. "We're happy to say goodbye to 2009 and pleased to embark on 2010 with an outlook of solid yield improvement, strong cost controls and improving returns to our shareholders." Fain continued, "We are also benefiting from the terrific success of our latest Oasis- and Solstice-class vessels. These ships are generating very healthy returns due to high guest satisfaction, excellent revenues and lower operating costs."

Net income for the full year 2009 was $162.4 million, or $0.75 per share, compared to net income of $573.7 million, or $2.68 per share, for the full year 2008. Revenues for the full year 2009 declined to $5.9 billion from revenues of $6.5 billion for the full year 2008. Fuel costs per metric ton decreased 18% to $486 for the full year and consumption was 1,235,000 metric tons. Fuel expenses for the year would have been higher if not for a 3.7% consumption improvement per APCD during 2009. Since 2005 the company has reduced energy consumption per APCD by 11%.

The company reported that early "wave season" bookings have been encouraging and that since the beginning of September, new bookings have been running approximately 30% higher than the corresponding period a year ago. Current price levels are also ahead of the same time last year across the majority of the company's product groups.

Royal Caribbean said that it reported that booked load factors and average per diems are ahead of same time last year for all four quarters and the full year. Royal Caribbean said that it expects net yields to increase approximately 2% for the first quarter and between 3% and 6% for the full year. After adjusting for changes in currency, Net Yields are forecasted to be around flat in the first quarter and increase 3% to 5% for the full year.

"Wave season is off to a promising start," said Brian J. Rice, executive vice president and chief financial officer. "It is still early in the selling cycle for 2010, but our order book is stronger and prices are higher than at this same time last year. We clearly are not at pre-recession demand levels, but we are pleased to see solid yield recovery underway."

In addition to the previously disclosed $0.30 per share legal settlement, a further $0.09 per share gain will be recognized related to the settlement in the first quarter. As a result, a total of $0.39 will be recorded as a one-time gain in other income/(expense) during the first quarter of 2010.

NCC are forecasted to be flat for the first quarter and flat to up slightly for the full year 2010. After adjusting for changes in currency, NCC are forecasted to decline approximately (1%) in the first quarter and be flat for the full year.

Excluding fuel, NCC are expected to increase approximately 1% for the first quarter and are expected to be flat to up slightly for the full year. After adjusting for changes in currency, NCC excluding fuel are forecasted to be flat to down slightly for the first quarter and the full year.

Royal Caribbean said that it does not forecast fuel price changes and its cost calculations are based on current at-the-pump prices net of hedging impacts. Based on today's fuel prices Royal Caribbean said that it has included $163 million and $687 million of fuel expense in its first quarter and full year 2010 guidance, respectively.

The Summit, which will be held on board Crown Princess during Valentine's week, February 13-20, will feature a host of themed activities and presentations by the line's Department of Romance members. Designed to celebrate the many aspects of cruising with Princess that can help couples reconnect, these special events will give passengers insight and inspiration on infusing romance into their everyday lives.

The entire Department of Romance will be aboard the special sailing. In addition to current members "Love Boat" captain Gavin MacLeod, "The Bachelorette's" Trista and Ryan Sutter, and destination wedding expert Lisa Light, three new members will join the department. The new love experts are Anna Post, the great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post who will be discussing romance etiquette; "The Dating Diva" Dee Frazier of The University of Dating, an authority on finding love at any age; and Princess Cruises comedian Kevin Hughes, who keeps audiences laughing with his comedic and insightful take on relationships.

"Hosting the first-ever Romance Summit seems like the perfect way to celebrate Princess' legacy of romance in a fun, unique way with something for everyone onboard," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises' executive vice president. "It's also the perfect way to introduce the newest members of our Department of Romance. We look forward to starting some lively conversations, as well as provide our passengers with great relationship tips, and a lot of fun."

During the Romance Summit passengers will be treated to an abundance of romantic events, including an opportunity to meet all the Department of Romance members at a group panel discussion, plus attend individual presentations where each member will offer expertise on a particular aspect of love and relationships. Additionally, passengers will enjoy a variety of romance-themed activities, including a group renewal of vows for all couples on the ship and a Valentine's Gala where passengers are invited to dress up in their best red attire for an evening of romantic dining and entertainment.

Throughout the sailing, passengers will enjoy themed food and beverage, entertainment, movies, and daytime activities.

Crown Princess is sailing on a western Caribbean itinerary during the Romance Summit, with calls at Grand Cayman, Roatan, Cozumel and Princess Cays.

Company	Today's Closing Price	Change (since last week)
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL)	33.56	+ 0.42%%
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL)	25.19	- 2.36%
Star Cruises (HKSE:0678.HK)	1.85	- 6.09%

Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which famous former liner served as James Bond's headquarters in the film "The Man with the Golden Gun"?

Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to cruise2008@travelpage.com

Last Week's Question
Beginning in March of 1989, Cunard's QE2 was out of service for 72 days. Why was she out of service?

Answer - To celebrate the 130th anniversary of the City of Yokohama a consortium of Japanese companies chartered the QE2 for 72 days from March 27th 1989. She docked alongside the passenger terminal as a central attraction and although she did not go to sea she maintained her status as an ocean liner.
courtesy of Ralph Sackett, Lichfield UK

Cruise News - January 25, 2010

"As part of our $525-million Signature of Excellence program, we've added elegant new staterooms to Prinsendam, as well as expanded the aft pool deck area," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Prinsendam has one of our most loyal followings so the new, mostly verandah staterooms and other improvements will enrich the guest experience on this much-loved ship even further."

With the addition of 21 staterooms aft, the pool deck expanded with more space and deck chairs for guests to enjoy. A new sea-view bar was created to enhance the ambiance further. Several lounges and other public areas received new carpeting and the Wajang Theatre and Culinary Arts Center were updated with furniture and carpeting in warm, light colors. Other standard maintenance and technical service also took place along with upgrades of laundry and galley equipment.

Fifteen of the new staterooms are deluxe verandah ocean view categories. There are six new standard inside staterooms. As customary with all Prinsendam staterooms, appointments feature Mariner Dream Beds, 250-count linens, recently redesigned closet space, elegant bathrooms with Elemis amenities, flat panel televisions and DVD players and more. Guest capacity increased from 793 to 835.

Designed to explore the remote corners of the world in elegance and style, the ms Prinsendam is Holland America Line's most intimate ship, with the feel of a classic yacht and the spaciousness, amenities and service of a premium cruise ship.

Following the January 13, 70-day South America Explorer Grand Voyage cruise, Prinsendam sails a 54-day Quest of the Argonauts voyage, departing March 24 roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale to the Mediterranean and Black Sea. The ship will sail a leisurely eastbound course across the Atlantic for an extensive Mediterranean exploration with calls at ports in more than 10 countries, including Morocco, Spain, France, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Russia, Georgia, Greece and Turkey. The cruise includes overnight stays in Barcelona, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal and Istanbul, Turkey, as well as late-night departures in Athens and Santorini, Greece; and Lisbon, Portugal. Prinsendam will visit Bermuda and New York City before returning to Fort Lauderdale.

The 130,000-ton Carnival Magic will offer a host of features popularized on its sister ship Carnival Dream, including a WaterWorks aqua park, a stunning café/live entertainment venue called Ocean Plaza; Serenity adults-only retreat; spacious, modern facilities for children and teens; and a wide range of stateroom categories. Several innovations unique to the Carnival Magic will be announced in the coming months.

In making the announcement, Gerry Cahill, Carnival Cruise Lines' president and CEO said, "Making the decision to return to Europe is an indicator of our confidence in the increasing willingness of North Americans to travel internationally as we move toward 2011."

Carnival Magic's 2011 Mediterranean schedule will encompass three seven-day departures, six nine-day cruises, and eight 12-day voyages round-trip from Barcelona May 10 – October 16, 2011. A special one-time nine-day voyage from Venice to Barcelona will operate May 1-10, 2011.

Each of the three itineraries start and end on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, which reflects consumers' traditional vacation patterns and provides convenient opportunities for adding a pre- and post-cruise stay.

Seven-day cruises will feature Monte Carlo, Monaco; and Livorno, Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples and Messina, Italy. Departure dates include July 3, 10 and 17, 2011.

Nine-day cruises will call at Marseilles, France – the line's first call at this charming coastal town – followed by Monte Carlo (excluding the August 26 departure); Livorno, Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, and Messina; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain. Voyages will operate June 3 and 24, August 5 and 26, September 16, and October 7, 2011. The special nine-day cruise departing May 1 will visit Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Naples, Rome (Civitavecchia), Livorno; and Monte Carlo.

The 12-day Grand Mediterranean voyages will feature Monte Carlo or Marseilles; Livorno, Rome (Civitavecchia), and Naples; Dubrovnik (excluding the May 22 departure which will visit Palma de Mallorca); Venice (overnight call) and Messina. These voyages will depart May 10 and 22, June 12, July 24, August 14, September 4 and 25, and October 16, 2011.

On the Carnival Magic's Mediterranean cruises, guests can sample the region's renowned cuisine, experience unique sightseeing opportunities, view stunning architecture and visit centuries-old historical landmarks and museums.

All three itineraries will operate round-trip from Barcelona, a bustling, cosmopolitan city whose modern cruise terminal is considered one of the finest in Europe.

As the line's newest ship, Carnival Magic will offer a host of on-board amenities and facilities, including Ocean Plaza, an indoor/outdoor café and live entertainment venue with full bar service, a patisserie and a dance floor; Serenity, an exclusive adults-only retreat offering magnificent sea views; and The Lanai, a wrap-around promenade encircling the ship with cantilevered whirlpools that will extend over the ship's sides.

Carnival Magic will also build upon the line's distinction as the family cruise leader, with dedicated facilities and programming for children in three age groups – Camp Carnival (2-11), Circle "C" (12-14) and Club O2 (15-17) – along with a miniature golf course and an expansive WaterWorks aqua park with multiple water slides and other features.

Extensive formal and casual dining options, including two two-level main dining rooms, an expansive poolside Lido restaurant, an elegant steakhouse serving U.S.D.A. prime dry-aged beef, a sushi bar, and complimentary 24-hour stateroom service, will also be available.

High-tech features aboard the Carnival Magic will include the Fun Hub, a comprehensive intranet portal and shipboard social network, along with ship-wide Wi-Fi access. Health-conscious guests will enjoy a 23,750-square-foot Cloud 9 Spa featuring a thalassotherapy pool, thermal suite and elaborate spa and gymnasium facilities.

Carnival Magic will also feature 1,845 staterooms – the most ever on a Carnival ship – and will offer a wide range of accommodation categories. These include the affordable cove balconies, located on Deck 2 and closer to the water line, and a wide range of staterooms including deluxe ocean views with two-bathrooms, some of which feature five berths.

Seven ships -- Nieuw Amsterdam, ms Eurodam, ms Noordam, ms Rotterdam, ms Prinsendam, ms Maasdam and ms Ryndam -- will be based in the region with the first voyage departing April 3 on the Nieuw Amsterdam and the final trans-Atlantic sailing departing Nov. 7 on the ms Prinsendam.

"In 2011, we are catering to a broader range of interests as the appeal of cruising Europe continues to grow," said Rick Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "By expanding our cruise opportunities -- both in new ports and varied itineraries -- we expect to entice both first-time and seasoned cruisers."

The 2011 season has something for everyone. Featuring 15 maiden calls and offering overnight visits at 16 diverse ports, it marks the debut of several new European itineraries including two commemorative nine-day historical trans-Atlantic crossings aboard Rotterdam in July.

Two Signature-class ships, Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam, will both sail European itineraries during the 2011 season. Eurodam, the line's first Signature-class ship, will start the Europe season with two seven-day Mediterranean sailings before continuing a series of mostly northern Europe itineraries. Nieuw Amsterdam, the newest ship, will sail the popular 12-day Mediterranean Romance, 12-day Tapestry and 12-day Empires itineraries as well as two seven-day Mediterranean cruises mid-season.

Additional round-trip itineraries, which allow time to explore a departure city before or after the cruise, depart from nine European cities -- Tilbury and Dover (London), U.K.; Rome and Venice, Italy; Barcelona, Spain; Athens, Greece; Copenhagen, Denmark; and Amsterdam and Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Additionally, the line will offer a round-trip sailing to the continent from Boston, Massachusetts, aboard the Maasdam in July. For those short on time, 18 seven-day sailings provide an array of cruises exploring the Mediterranean, Norwegian Fjords or the Baltic.

The season also will feature three new itineraries aboard the Ryndam. A 21-day Mediterranean Adventure offers a comprehensive tour of fascinating Mediterranean ports as well as the less-visited Sete, France, and Sardinia, Italy. The 14-day North Cape cruise features a crossing of the Arctic Circle and a sail by the North Cape and Norwegian ports. And an 11-day Canary Island Explorer sailing round-trip Rotterdam visits the Canary Islands, Morocco and Spain.

More ambitious cruisers looking to expand their port collections can combine itineraries for a Collectors' Voyage, which range from 14 to 45 days and are perfect for true explorers who seek an in-depth experience at an exceptional value.

CLIA was founded in 1975 to serve the needs of a small, new venture - the transformation of increasingly obsolete maritime transatlantic travel into trend-setting leisure vacationing. The industry's story is one of impressive growth - 118 new ships since 2000, and, since 1980, average annual growth in passengers of 7.4 percent, despite numerous economic downturns and other obstacles.

In 2008/2009, the cruise industry was impacted by many of the same challenges facing all businesses. Fuel prices, H1N1, the stock market crash and continued fluctuations, the housing crisis, corporate restructuring, stimulus plans and bailouts, even the uncertainty of a presidential election and, certainly, declining and fragile consumer confidence. Unlike many other industries, cruising, with an impressive history of recession-resistance, had several advantages. These include vessel mobility and redeployment, ability to quickly adapt to change, effective expense management and, above all, a product with the highest perceived value for money spent. Combined with the excitement of new ships, a proactive travel agency sales network and promotional efforts to create incredible vacation values, CLIA member lines were able to drive consumer demand and operate at full capacity throughout the most challenging months.

"CLIA's member lines and travel agents responded amazingly well to the economic crisis and have put themselves in a very strong position to succeed in 2010," said Terry L. Dale, CLIA's president and CEO. "In many important ways, if you have to have these challenges, cruising is the industry to be in. We have continued high cruise vacation interest and demand and an under-penetrated market of millions who have never cruised before; approximately 80% of Americans have yet to cruise and the opportunity is even greater in Europe and abroad where cruise vacation adoption is growing at an accelerated rate. Statistically, cruising exceeds traveler expectations and first-timers and past cruisers keep coming back. The industry's history of thriving through even the hardest of times gives our guests confidence that they are making a safe and rewarding purchase. And, most important, cruise vacations are perceived by virtually all consumers as very high value when those consumers are seeking value above all else."

Industry Growth and Economic Impact - Despite the economic turmoil of 2009, the cruise industry continued to grow. A total of 13.445 million guests are forecast to have sailed last year (totals through the third quarter, 2009 - 9,999,068 passengers - indicate that forecast is on track), U.S. and Canadian residents accounted for 76.5 percent of guests, with 23.5 percent sourced internationally. Volume of international guests has been growing consistently. In 2000, less than 10% of the guests sailing on CLIA member cruise lines were sourced to international markets. The CLIA fleet (collectively among all 25 member cruise lines) in 2009 sailed at an average occupancy of 104.4 percent, with an average length of cruise of 7.2 days. In short, passenger volume continues to keep pace with capacity.

CLIA forecasts a total of 14.3 million passengers in 2010 - 10.7 million from North America and 3.6 million sourced internationally. This represents a total increase of passengers of 855,000 or 6.4 percent growth.

The industry's growth is also reflected in its economic impact. In 2008, direct spending in goods and services by cruise lines and their passengers totaled $19.07 billion, a 2 percent increase over 2007. Factoring in indirect spending, the total economic impact of the industry on the U.S. economy was $40.2 billion, an increase of six percent. All 50 states were positively impacted. This included the generation of 357,710 jobs paying a total of $16.2 billion in wages and salaries nationwide.

New Ships - After introducing 14 new ships representing a total investment of $4.7 billion in 2009, the CLIA fleet will invest an additional $6.5 billion and welcome 12 new vessels this year. Significantly, the new ships continue to reflect the diversity of ships and cruise experiences available to the traveling public, ranging in capacity from 101 passengers to 5,400 passengers and built for everything from roaming the globe in sheer luxury to sailing the waters of Europe's most famous rivers and the coastlines of North America.

The newest members of the CLIA fleet will include:

• Royal Caribbean International: Allure of the Seas (5,400 passengers)

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Epic (4,200 passengers)

• Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Eclipse (2,850 passengers)

• MSC: MSC Magnifica (2,550 passengers)

• Costa Cruises: Deliziosa (2,260 passengers)

• Holland America Line: Nieuw Amsterdam (2,100 passengers)

• Cunard Line: Queen Elizabeth (2,092 passengers)

• Seabourn Cruise Line: Seabourn Sojourn (450 passengers)

• Avalon Waterways: Felicity and Luminary (138 passengers)

• Pearl Seas Cruises: Pearl Mist (110 passengers)

• American Cruise Line: Independence (101 passengers)

Looking forward, CLIA member lines have 26 new ships on order between 2010 and 2012 - 23 ocean-going vessels and three built for river/coastal cruising. This represents a net increase in capacity of 18 percent, or 53,971 beds.

Industry Trends - At the end of 2009, CLIA surveyed its member lines and member travel agents to get a better picture of their outlook and level of optimism for 2010 and to identify major industry trends. These are some of the findings:

• Travel agents are optimistic about the coming year, with 75.7 percent anticipating an increase in sales and another 11 percent expecting to hold even with 2009. Most agents surveyed looked forward to sales increases of approximately 15 percent.

• Although the cruise selling season spans the entire year, the traditional "Wave Season" (January-March) will continue to be important for cruise sales, according to agents, with 83 percent predicting an increase in booking volume of 10-20 percent.

• Consumers, according to agents, continue to express strong interest in all types of cruising. High interest in contemporary cruising was expressed by 73 percent of clients, followed by premium cruise lines (49.7 percent) and destination/niche cruise products (47 percent). One of the most dramatic findings was the high interest in river cruising by 34 percent of clients.

• Cruising continues to rank number one among consumers for perceived value, vacation interest and, for travel agents, ease in selling.

• The anticipated top cruise destinations for 2010, by volume of sales, according to agents, are: The Caribbean/Bahamas, including eastern Mexico, Alaska, Mediterranean and Greek Islands/Turkey, Europe, Hawaii, Panama Canal, West Coast of Mexico, Bermuda, European rivers and Canada/New England.

• The top "hot" destinations (consumers increased interest) include: The Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Alaska, European rivers, Europe, Hawaii, Panama Canal, West Coast of Mexico and the Bahamas

• While remaining relatively short, the cruise booking window is lengthening. Agents report an average window of 5.04 months (compared to 4.6 months in 2009), with only 30 percent of clients booking less than four months out (compared to 39 percent in 2009).

• Couples dominate cruise demographics although agents report continued growth in families, extended families, and friends traveling together as well. Seniors also continue to be an important segment.

• Fifty-three percent of agents expect to book more new cruisers in 2010 while 37 percent expect their client mix of new and repeat customers to remain constant.

• CLIA travel agents continue to be very optimistic about travel in the next three years, particularly cruise travel - 71.1 percent describe themselves as "very or extremely optimistic."

• CLIA training remains extremely important for member agents. Eighty-eight percent have taken CLIA training; almost 70 percent are currently enrolled in some form of CLIA education, and 87.2 percent say training is important. CLIA member lines, meanwhile, identify a number of trends that will help define cruising in 2010:

• Strong interest in group and affinity travel (for some lines more than 40 percent of business)

• Popularity of theme cruises, notably music, food and wine cruises

• Some lines are increasing their line-up of onboard speakers for enhanced enrichment programs

• Cruise lines expect baby boomers and repeat cruisers to be the biggest growth markets

• Historical and cultural shore excursions tend to be the most popular

• Shipboard spas continue to attract cruisers, with some lines reporting use by 40-50 percent of passengers

• New green, environment-friendly shipboard technologies being utilized, such as solar power, advanced water treatment systems, Alternative Maritime Power, fuel conservation, innovative hull treatments and others

It is also worth noting that many CLIA member lines have plans in place to boost marketing efforts for 2010 to ensure continued demand, including taking full advantage of social media, including Facebook and Twitter.

CLIA travel agents agree with member lines that consumers have much to look forward to in 2010. In addition to new ships of every size and description, these are some of the innovations that are guaranteed to generate strong interest among vacationers:

• New shipboard amenities and facilities such as themed "neighborhoods," full-sized waterparks, adults-only areas, comedy clubs, more and more dining choices and a greater choice of accommodations

• Expanded and diversified shore excursions, including private excursions

• Incentives to book in advance, such as gratuity packages and discounts

• Approximately 30 domestic ports of embarkation mean that half the residents of the United States are now within driving distance of cruises sailing to all parts of the world, eliminating the cost and inconvenience of flying

"Vacations are needed now more than ever; everyone needs the time and space to relax and revitalize. Nothing makes that easier than a cruise and we are confident that with new ships and itineraries, innovative shipboard experiences and incredible value, 2010 will be a great year for cruising," Dale said.

The voluntary reporting system helps NOAA track weather patterns in many areas of the world where the organization doesn't have direct access to local information. The ships measure air temperature, humidity, wind direction and strength, sea waves and swells. Ships send information at a minimum of every six hours when at sea to a database which is forwarded to NOAA.

"As long-time participants in this important program, we're happy that our fleet was able to provide so much data this year to help with worldwide weather forecasting," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. "With Princess ships sailing around the globe to all seven continents, we're in the unique position to be able to take weather readings in a multitude of destinations where NOAA might not otherwise be able to get information."

This data, which is gathered not only from cruise ships, but from all types of ships worldwide, is used to help NOAA track and forecast weather patterns around the world.

The board declared a dividend of $0.10 per share and approved a record date of February 19, 2010, and a payment date of March 12, 2010.

"Resuming the quarterly dividend demonstrates our confidence in the earnings power of our global cruise brands despite the current economic environment. In addition, there has been a notable improvement in our access to the capital markets since the suspension was announced at the height of the financial crisis. Initiating the dividend at this level allows us to begin to return cash to shareholders at the peak of our capital expenditure program in 2010 and still maintain our strong balance sheet and solid investment grade credit rating. We are committed to returning cash to shareholders and expect to grow the dividend as our capital investment program slows beyond 2010 leading to significant free cash flow," said Micky Arison, Carnival Corporation & plc chairman and CEO.

Holders of Carnival Corporation common stock and Carnival plc ADSs will receive the dividend payable in U.S. dollars. The dividend for Carnival plc ordinary shares will be payable in U.S. dollars or sterling. In the absence of instructions or elections to the contrary, holders of Carnival plc ordinary shares will automatically receive the dividend in sterling.

Dividends payable in sterling will be converted from U.S. dollars at the exchange rate quoted by the Bank of England in London at 12 noon on March 1, 2010. Holders of Carnival plc ordinary shares wishing to receive their dividend in U.S. dollars or participate in the Carnival plc Dividend Reinvestment Plan must elect to do so by February 19, 2010.

Company	Today's Closing Price	Change (since last week)
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL)	33.56	+ 0.42%%
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL)	25.19	- 2.36%
Star Cruises (HKSE:0678.HK)	1.85	- 6.09%

Cruise News Trivia Question:
Beginning in March of 1989, Cunard's QE2 was out of service for 72 days. Why was she out of service?

Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to cruise2008@travelpage.com

Last Week's Question
What was the last cruise ship completed for the Home Lines and what happened to her?

Answer - The last ship completed for Home Lines was Homeric completed in 1986 in Papenburg. She later was stretched and and became Westerdam for Holland America Lines. She now sails as Costa Europa for Costa Lines.
courtesy of Hugh Chandler

Cruise News - January 18, 2010

"The effect of the earthquake on Haiti has been catastrophic, leaving the country in need of not only immediate support, but assistance in their long-term recovery," said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "Royal Caribbean wants to do its part to help out not only the general response, but also our hundreds of Haitian employees and their families through this disaster."

"In addition to our financial contribution, Royal Caribbean will continue to provide economic support through the continuous business we bring to Labadee," Fain added.

Leslie Voltaire, Special Envoy of the government of Haiti to the United Nations said, "Given the terrible economic and social challenges we now face in Haiti, we welcome the continuation of the positive economic benefits that the cruise ship calls to Labadee contribute to our country."

The benefits start with Royal Caribbean International's Independence of the Seas' call today to Labadee, Haiti, which includes much needed supplies for the country. The supplies were loaded on the ship during its call in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and include items such as rice, dried beans, powdered milk, water and canned goods. In addition, 100 percent of the company's net revenue from the destination will be contributed to the relief effort.

In the next two weeks, the following ships are scheduled to call on Labadee with additional supplies: Navigator of the Seas on Monday, January 18; Liberty of the Seas on Tuesday, January 19; and Celebrity Solstice on Friday, January 22. When the supplies arrive in Labadee, they will be transported to an offsite location to be distributed by Food for the Poor, a long time partner of Royal Caribbean in Haiti.

In addition to working with Food for the Poor to distribute relief supplies, guests sailing onboard Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises will be able to make a donation to Food for the Poor's Haiti Relief Fund, via a charge to their onboard account. Guests who would like to contribute immediately can visit www.foodforthepoor.org/royalcaribbean to make a donation. Royal Caribbean also plans to use a portion of the $1 million donation to augment the company's Crew Relief Fund, which can be drawn on by any of the company's more than 200 Haitian crew members for assistance, as well as to match employee contributions to the partner organizations.

Royal Caribbean's decision to continue calling at Labadee while rescue and recovery operations continue 85 miles south in Port-Au-Prince has sparked strong debate across the Internet, including our own CruiseTalk forum. To join in the conversation visit CruiseTalk.

The funds will be forwarded to several different international organizations coordinating relief efforts within the country.

"We are saddened by this tragedy, one of the worst natural disasters of our lifetime and we are deeply concerned for the people of Haiti and hope that this donation will help provide much-needed assistance," said Micky Arison, chairman and CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those affected by this catastrophe," he added.

Carnival Corporation & plc's donation has been earmarked for the following relief organizations: UNICEF, the University of Miami's Project Medishare, American Red Cross, and Save the Children.

The $5 million donation includes a large corporate contribution along with monies raised from a variety of fundraising efforts coordinated by Carnival Corporation & plc's cruise brands, both in their offices in North America, Europe and Australia and throughout the fleet.

The company is also working with the Miami HEAT on a coordinated relief effort for collecting various emergency supplies that are being shipped and distributed to Haiti by the University of Miami's Project Medishare.

"Historically, the cruise industry has not embraced the large number of people who enjoy traveling solo," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's chief executive officer. "We are breaking the mold of traditional cruising once again by offering a stateroom designed and priced specifically for solo travelers, making cruising a more attractive travel option. We invite all solo travelers - whether they are first-time cruisers or cruising veterans -- to sail on our incredible new Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic."

The Studios on Norwegian Epic are a private key-card access complex on two decks consisting of 128 staterooms and the Studio Lounge. This unique and thoughtfully designed concept provides comfort and convenience for the solo traveler. Each Studio stateroom, at approximately 100 square feet of living space, features a contemporary design with a full-size bed and separate areas for the bathroom, sink and shower. In addition, guests in the Studios have private access to the exclusive Studio Lounge. Here, guests can grab a cup of coffee in the morning, meet up with fellow cruisers and plan their day or relax with a drink in the evening. Since many of the Studio staterooms are connecting, there is also the opportunity for friends to travel together while giving each their own private space. A live interactive web event discussing the Studios and other Norwegian Epic news will take place today at 5 pm ET. To register for the web event, click here.

World-class entertainment is Norwegian Epic's hallmark. For the first time at sea, Blue Man Group will perform their exhilarating fusion of comedy, theatrics and paint, exclusively on Norwegian Epic. In the only "big top" at sea, Cirque Dreams and Dinner will present a one-of-a-kind interactive theatrical dining experience with music, mayhem and acrobatic imagination. Legends in Concert, the original and world's greatest live tribute show, will be featured for the first time at sea in more than a decade on Norwegian Epic, along with The Second City improvisational comedy and Howl at the Moon, the world's greatest rock 'n roll dueling piano show that encourages audience participation.

Based on the itinerary, guests can see wonders such as the Athenian Acropolis and the mysterious pyramids of Giza, or set sail on a roundtrip exploration from the Eternal City of Rome.

"The appealing blend of fascinating ports and overnight stays in historic Mediterranean cities on these Queen Victoria voyages truly epitomizes the new golden age of ocean travel," said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. "We're pleased to make these voyages even more compelling with this attractive stateroom offer."

Voyages include the Mediterranean Odyssey, departing 7 October from Venice (overnight visit) and calling on Dubrovnik, Katakolon, Mykonos, Istanbul, Kusadasi (Ephesus), Messina (Sicily), Rome (Civitavecchia), Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Marseille and arriving into Barcelona; Pearls of the Adriatic, departing from Barcelona on 19 October, with stops in Monte Carlo, Livorno, Naples, La Goulette, Valletta, Athens, Katakolon, Dubrovnik and Venice (overnight visit); and Ancient Treasures, departing roundtrip from Rome (Civitavecchia) on 12 November and visiting Messina, Valletta, Port Said, Limassol, Rhodes, Kusadasi, Athens and Naples.

Designed in grand Cunard tradition, Queen Victoria is the second largest Cunarder ever built, weighing in at 90,000 gross tons. Having debuted in December 2007, she captured the world stage in a way few ships ever do - becoming one of the most fêted ships to be introduced in recent years and quickly establishing herself in the Cunard fleet. Every inch of the 2,000-passenger liner is infused with a sense of luxury and tradition, from the Royal Court Theatre, which includes the first private viewing boxes at sea, to the signature two-storey library with a spiral staircase and nearly 6,000 volumes.

Set to debut in May 2011, the 3,690-passenger vessel will be the second in the line's Dream-class series and will offer a number of amenities and facilities popularized on the Carnival Dream – a sprawling water park, an Ocean Plaza café/entertainment venue and a wrap-around outdoor promenade – along with some new and exciting features to be announced in the near future.

In addition to the Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic, the line has a third Dream-class ship set to debut in 2012.

Holland America's schedule features eight ships offering 149 total departures from May 3 through September 24, 2010. The Alaskan Adventurer cruises will sail roundtrip from Seattle on flagship ms Amsterdam and call at Anchorage, Homer and Kodiak for the first time. Seven-day cruises will sail from Seattle, Vancouver and Seward.

"Drawing on more than 60 years of Alaska experience, Holland America Line has introduced this new 14-day Alaskan Adventurer itinerary to expand guests' cruising options," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales, and guest programs. "It is a major addition to our 2010 Alaska cruise schedule, which continues to offer the widest selection of seven-day itineraries and departures of any cruise line in Alaska."

Holland America is featuring a wide range of seven-day cruises, both roundtrip from Seattle and Vancouver and one-way between Vancouver and Seward. As a longtime tour operator, Holland America continues to be awarded the most permit entries of any major cruise line to Glacier Bay, a 65-mile long fjord with spectacular tidewater glaciers.

"Holland America's itineraries also continue to feature the best glacier viewing," said Meadows. "Every cruise visits massive tidewater glaciers."

Many roundtrip Seattle cruises feature Alaska's immense Hubbard Glacier in Yakutat Bay, the largest tidewater glacier in North America. Some cruises visit College Fjord with 10 large tidewater and valley glaciers named after Ivy League colleges. Others sail by the twin Sawyer Glaciers in the narrow, 26-mile Tracy Arm fjord.

Alaska Travel Guides sail on board every Holland America ship in Alaska and share their knowledge of local culture, history, art and flora and fauna with guests. In addition to the Alaska Travel Guides, Native interpreters board the ships in Glacier Bay and by Hubbard Glacier to explain the origins of the Huna and Yakutat people.

14-day Alaskan Adventurer Cruises - The 1,380-guest Amsterdam will homeport in Seattle to sail the 14-day Alaskan Adventurer cruises departing roundtrip May 17 through September 6, 2010. The Amsterdam will be the first cruise ship of a major cruise line to call in Anchorage, providing guests with a full day and evening in Alaska's major city.

The flagship will also call at the new ports of Homer and Kodiak. Homer features a breathtaking location at the tip of the Kenai Peninsula, the Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center and the famous Homer Spit in Kachemak Bay. Kodiak, home of the famed Kodiak bear, reflects both 7,500 years of native Alutiiq heritage and Russian fur trading influence since 1792 as the first capital of Russian America.

The Amsterdam's leisurely itinerary features a double glacier experience with visits to Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier. One departure on July 12 will visit the twin Sawyer Glaciers in picturesque Tracy Arm fjord along with Hubbard Glacier. Ports of call include Ketchikan, Skagway, Sitka, Anchorage, Homer, Kodiak, Juneau and Victoria, BC.

Alaskan Explorer Cruises - Four ships will be home-ported in Seattle in 2010, sailing a total of 63 seven-day Alaskan Explorer cruises roundtrip. The Amsterdam opens the season with two seven-day Alaskan Explorer cruises departing May 3 and 10 before shifting to the new 14-day itinerary.

From May 9 through September 24, the 1,432-guest ms Zaandam departs Fridays, 1,316-guest ms Rotterdam departs Saturdays and the 1,918-guest, Vista-class ms Oosterdam departs Sundays. The Zaandam and Rotterdam highlight the Hubbard Glacier and the Oosterdam showcases Glacier Bay. All Alaskan Explorer cruises call at the historic ports of Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan, plus Victoria, BC, and feature scenic cruising of the Inside Passage and Vancouver Island.

Inside Passage and Glacier Discovery Cruises - Four ships will be home-ported in Vancouver, two of them sailing seven-day Glacier Bay Inside Passage cruises roundtrip. The 1,432-guest Volendam (Wednesday departures) and 1,916-guest Zuiderdam (Saturday departures) sail 39 voyages from May 8 through September 18. They visit Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Glacier Bay National Park and Tracy Arm fjord.

The 1,270-guest ms Ryndam and the 1,258-guest ms Statendam will offer two more sailings of the Inside Passage—with port and glacier variations—September 12 and 19 to conclude the season.

The Ryndam and Statendam also sail 36 seven-day Glacier Discovery cruises between Vancouver and Seward and reverse with Sunday departures May 9 through September 12. From Vancouver, the northbound itinerary features Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park and College Fjord in Prince William Sound. The southbound route from Seward calls at Haines in place of Skagway.

The Glacier Discovery and Glacier Bay Inside Passage cruises are often combined with a land tour to create a comprehensive CruiseTour. A diverse selection of 31 CruiseTours from 11 to 20 days may include visits to Denali National Park, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, the Arctic and the Yukon Territory. Many CruiseTours offer two-days at Denali—"Double Denali"—to maximize wildlife and Mt. McKinley viewing.

Company	Today's Closing Price	Change (since last week)
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL)	33.42	+ 4.24%%
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL)	25.80	+ 0.85%
Star Cruises (HKSE:0678.HK)	1.97	- 3.55%

Cruise News Trivia Question:
What was the last cruise ship completed for the Home Lines and what happened to her?

Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to cruise2008@travelpage.com

Last Week's Question
Cunard's Queen Mary 2 carries a distictive item that was originally installed on board the original Queen Mary which is now serving as a hotel in Long Beach, California. What is this distinctive item?

Answer -The QM2 carries the horn from the second funnel of the original Queen Mary, now in Long Beach, CA.
courtesy of Bill Cwiklo

Cruise News - January 11, 2010

The first ceremony involved the welding of significant coins beneath the mast of Queen Elizabeth for good luck. Three coins were chosen - a half crown dated 1938 (the year the first Queen Elizabeth was launched), a sovereign dated 1967 (the year Queen Elizabeth 2 was launched) and a sovereign dated 2010 (to acknowledge the new Queen Elizabeth being floated out in 2010).

After the coin ceremony, the focus moved to the dockside, where the liner was blessed and a bottle of Italian prossecco was smashed against the hull by the Madrina. The valves of the dry dock were then opened and the liner met the water for the first time.

"It is only a little over six months since the keel for this great ship was laid. In that short time, a solitary block at the bottom of the dry dock has, as a result of the skill and discipline of the workforce here at Fincantieri, grown into this awe-inspiring vessel," said Shanks. "Even in her present unfinished state, devoid of the carpets and curtains, furnishings and facilities, paintings and porcelain that we associate with a Cunard luxury liner, she is awesome. Of our 170 years of history, there has been an 'Elizabeth' in the fleet for more than 70 and this ship - the second largest Cunarder ever built -will take the name far into the 21st Century."

Queen Elizabeth will feature many unique Cunard traditions linking her with her sisters, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria, and their predecessors. It also will feature all the modern day luxuries Cunard's guests have come to expect. Additionally, there will be features that will give the vessel her own style and personality.

The first Queen Elizabeth was one of Cunard's greatest ships, and the new Queen Elizabeth will reflect her predecessor in interior grandeur, décor and style, but with a modern twist. From the outside, her distinctive black and red livery will hint at an experience that differentiates a Cunard liner from a modern-day cruise ship. This will be most evident in the ship's adherence to liner traditions, with elegant double- and triple-height public rooms on a grand scale, luxuriously endowed with rich wood panelling, intricate mosaics, hand-woven carpets, gleaming chandeliers and cool marbles. Art Deco features will pay homage to the original Queen Elizabeth and will allow the new ship to reflect a more civilized era of travel.

As successor to Queen Elizabeth 2, the ship will also reflect this great liner through artwork and memorabilia, and its very own "Yacht Club." Queen Elizabeth will acknowledge the links that Cunard has enjoyed with royalty and the maritime world over the years with photography, memorabilia and exhibits.

Queen Elizabeth's Maiden Voyage, now sold out, will depart on Tuesday 12 October 2010. This 13-night celebration will leave from the company's home port in Southampton (UK), and will call at Vigo, Lisbon, Cadiz, Las Palmas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife (overnight call) and Funchal.

Her Maiden Season will run from October 2010 to January 2011 and include voyages to the Western and Central Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Fares for the ship's 13-day Iberian Discovery voyage start from $2,620 per person, based on double occupancy. Departing roundtrip from Southampton on December 1, Queen Elizabeth will visit Vigo, Lisbon, Cadiz, Grand Canaria, Tenerife, La Palma and Madeira.

Queen Elizabeth will depart Southampton on 5 January 2011 on her 103-night epic Maiden World Voyage, which has just opened for sale. This tour will feature 35 maiden calls, including Cunard's first call ever at Port Denarau (Fiji). In total, Queen Elizabeth will call at 38 ports in 23 countries as she makes her way west around the globe, with maiden transits of both the Panama and Suez Canals and calls at Los Angeles, Auckland, Sydney, Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai and Lisbon.

Queen Elizabeth will be in great company, as her sisters will be on hand for several Cunard Royal Rendezvous meetings during the voyage: she will sail in tandem en route to New York with Queen Victoria before all three Cunard Queens meet in New York on 13 January; she will meet Queen Mary 2 in Sydney on 22 February and in Civitavecchia on 13 April; and she will meet Queen Victoria again in Aruba on 19 January.

"What better time than our 20th anniversary to celebrate Celebrity's history of award-winning service, cuisine, and our new, brand-defining Solstice Class?" said Celebrity's President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. "Everything we've offered over the course of 20 years, and everything we'll offer in the future, is designed for discerning cruisers - from our contemporary, new Celebrity Life onboard experiences, to the world-class cuisine of Chef Jacques Van Staden, to our enhanced Captain's Club loyalty program. So, we've summed up our longtime commitment to understanding them and delivering what they want within a new brand platform: 'Designed for You'."

The introduction of Designed for You - pairing Celebrity's commitment to stunningly-designed ships and innovative onboard experiences with its commitment to impeccable guest service - marks the culmination of an extensive, six-month exploration into more deeply understanding the needs of discerning cruisers. The process included an in-depth market research survey of nearly 10,000 international cruisers, numerous focus group sessions with past guests and travel partners, in-home interviews with some of Celebrity's frequent guests and prospects, and exhaustive reviews of cruisers' needs, attitudes and behaviors. All these efforts, combined with Celebrity's 20 years of focusing on guest needs, helped the brand create the ultimate combination of ship design, service, cuisine and programs for cruise lovers.

"We've always been committed to identifying and designing what our guests want, and the awards our brand continues to receive are welcome validation that it's working," said Hanrahan. "Our new Celebrity Life onboard experiences - inspired by our guests' interest in more widely varied onboard programming - are netting consistently high marks from our guests, as are the enhancements we've made to our Captain's Club loyalty program, built to suit what our members wanted most. But, the greatest validation has been the response to our stunning Solstice Class."

Celebrity's five-ship Solstice Class fleet represents an investment of $3.7-billion - the largest newbuild commitment for a single brand in industry history - offering modern cruising "firsts," including The Lawn Club; The Hot Glass Show; AquaClass; the industry's first application of solar technology, and stylish staterooms whose design was influenced by a panel of women with unique travel and hospitality insights.

"Through our Designed for You platform, we plan to leverage our Solstice Class ships' stylish, modern design and ambience even further," said Hanrahan, revealing that Celebrity plans to incorporate iconic Solstice Class attributes across the fleet, most notably through a significant revitalization of all four Millennium Class ships. Celebrity Constellation will be the first to receive the new enhancements during scheduled drydock in April of this year.

Among the Solstice Class features to be introduced on the Millennium Class ships:

• More opportunities to relish Celebrity's world-class cuisine with the addition of Tuscan Grille, the Napa Valley-meets-Italian-steakhouse venue found on Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Equinox

• Bistro on Five, the vibrant, popular creperie introduced on Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Equinox

• A Solstice Class-inspired, ice-topped Martini Bar paired with Crush, whose ice-filled table presents a selection of chilled, top-tier vodkas

• The cool Cafe al Bacio and Gelateria, replacing the former Cova Cafe

• As introduced on the Solstice Class, an Enomatic wine bar, the state-of-the-art, Italian designed wine serving system allowing guests to select and serve, at the touch of a button, the wines of their choice by the glass

• More sumptuous suites, on a par with those in the most modern hotels in Europe, with all new furniture, flat-screen TVs, upholstery, bedding and carpeting

• Restyled staterooms, with entirely new carpeting, flat-screen TVs, upholstery and bedding

• New color schemes, carpeting and upholstery reflective of Solstice Class in every public venue, from the Celebrity Theater to Seaside Grill, from the main dining room to Michael's Club

The revitalization is just part of Celebrity's full Designed for You platform, which - when combined with the brand's Celebrity Life onboard experience, more robust, well-received Captain's Club, and multiple other brand enhancements- represents a nearly $200-million investment.

The beauty of Celebrity's Solstice Class also takes center stage in the brand's new ad campaign, with dramatic, distinctive images, a modern, contemporary graphic treatment, a copy voice promoting the brand's differentiating elements, and the tagline, Designed for You. Marking a first for Celebrity, a hip new video shot on Celebrity Solstice to capture the essence of the Celebrity cruise experience will run on multiple travel, video, social, lifestyle and news sites. Print ads will appear in trade and consumer magazines and major daily newspapers across North America.

"We've studied where cruise enthusiasts go to research options for their next vacation, and more than 70 percent go online," said Hanrahan. "So, we'll have a big presence there, on some of cruisers' favorite sites, to allow them to briefly and virtually immerse themselves in a vacation experience designed for them."

Celebrity also will continue to ensure its celebritycruises.com web site is designed for cruisers who appreciate online options, such as Celebrity Select Dining, the industry's first pre-cruise, day-by-day flexible dining reservation system; pre-cruise AquaSpa reservations; specialty dining reservations; shore excursion bookings; and online documentation, or "e-docs."

Celebrity's new Designed for You brand platform, revitalization program and ad campaign are only part of the investment the line is making to continue to offer the best in premium cruising, said Hanrahan, adding, "All this is part of a total package, including our robust, new Celebrity Life enrichment and entertainment programming; our enhanced Captain's Club loyalty program; museum-quality contemporary art collections; our industry-first ConciergeClass accommodations across the fleet and, on the Solstice Class fleet, AquaClass; and guest-inspired partnerships with Riedel Crystal, Rosetta Stone, Smithsonian Journeys and, on the Solstice Class fleet, The Corning Museum of Glass."

Hanrahan also praised a partnership Celebrity has considered invaluable since its founding. "For 20 years, we have benefited enormously from our relationships with the travel agent community. We look forward to continuing to help them grow their business with new programs and promotions designed for them, and to drive cruisers to capitalize on their expertise when booking their next Celebrity vacation."

When they were first designed and implemented, podded propulsion was a significant technological advance over traditional shaft propulsion, but it experienced a number of technical issues in the early years of use. However, working together, Royal Caribbean and Rolls-Royce have been successful in improving the reliability of the design. Mermaid pods are installed on four Celebrity ships - Millennium, Summit, Infinity and Constellation.

"We look forward to continuing our alliance with Rolls-Royce for many years to come," said Daniel J. Hanrahan, president and chief executive officer, Celebrity Cruises. "Rolls-Royce has one of the best reputations for reliability, and guests and travel agents should feel confident in Rolls-Royce's assurances of the reliability of the Mermaid pods."

"We are not only satisfied to have reached a solution with Celebrity Cruises, but that we have been able to improve and enhance the Mermaid pod's reliability," said John Paterson, President-Marine, Rolls-Royce. "We look forward to the opportunity to continue contributing to Celebrity's high operating standards now, and in the future."

The settlement will generate a net increase of approximately $65 million in Other Income/(expense) in Royal Caribbean's 2010 first quarter results.

Although Filomena has already earned a place in the Carnival record book, he continues to sail with the line and already has 12 cruises planned for 2010!

Filomena (second from left) is pictured here on the Carnival Miracle's bridge with the ship's officers, including Captain Rocco Lubrano (far left), Hotel Director Pierre B. Camilleri (second from right) and Guest Services Manager Phil Holmes.

Exciting new youth activities and dedicated children's spaces are available now on the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder and are coming to the Disney Dream beginning with the ship's maiden voyage in January 2011.

"The changes within Disney Cruise Line youth activities will allow children freedom to create a customized experience onboard our ships," said Disney Cruise Line Vice President of Entertainment Jim Urry. "Children can select their own adventures and immersive experiences for a truly personalized, memorable cruise vacation."

On Disney Cruise Line, children can personalize their cruise vacation by selecting activities and events, regardless of age. Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab are open to children age 3 to 12 on the Disney Wonder and age 3 to 10 on the Disney Magic.

While Disney Cruise Line will continue to recommend activities that appeal to specific maturity levels and ages, the entire menu of offerings is open to every child. With this evolutionary approach to shipboard youth activities, children and parents choose programs based on the specific interests of each child to create a customized and very personalized experience. Best of all, children of different ages -- siblings, extended family and friends -- can participate in youth activities together throughout their cruise.

The majority of children's events and free-time activities occur within dedicated youth spaces on the ship and on Castaway Cay. As always, Disney Cruise Line youth activities are supervised by specially trained, experienced counselors.

Specific program information is available to guests on the day of check-in at the Youth Activities registration desk located in the Disney cruise ship terminal building prior to boarding, or onboard in the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab.

With more than 100 activities, events and programs, and with all youth activities open to all ages, children have more choices than ever before on Disney Cruise Line.

Many experiences draw inspiration from classic Disney stories and popular Disney characters:

• During the new Cinderella's Royal Ball, young guests can feel like royalty as Cinderella shows them how to be a prince or princess.

• So You Want to be a Pirate offers adventurous tales of the high seas, pirate training for young buccaneers, swashbuckling fun and a special appearance by Captain Hook.

• Children are immersed in the world of Disney-Pixar's "Toy Story" during Toy Story Boot Camp. Led by Corporal Green, toy recruits participate in interactive activities.

Hands-on activities appeal to children's sense of creativity and invention:

• The next great celebrity chef could be discovered at Ratatouille Cooking School, where children work together to bake tasty chocolate chip cookies.

• During the new Animal Tracking Series, children discover that conservation can be fun as they learn about endangered animals, create an animal tracking device and locate (plush) cotton-top tamarin monkeys using telemetry tracking on Castaway Cay.

• In Flubber, one of the most popular youth activities on Disney Cruise Line, children join Professor Goo in creating magical green goo and other interesting concoctions.

Other onboard youth activities include playful programs such as Mouseketeer Training and Little Einsteins for preschoolers; challenge-and solution-games like Stitch's Great Adventure and Detective School with Goofy; high-action group activities such as Kim Possible: Cruise Control and The Challenge of Davy Jones; and unstructured free time to enjoy the youth areas, play on computers and spend time having fun with new friends.

"With more than 60 years' experience in Alaska and Yukon tours, Holland America creates itineraries to highlight the best and most comprehensive Yukon experiences," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales, and guest programs.

CruiseTours featuring the Yukon range from 10 to 20 days in length and depart May 9 through Aug. 28, 2010. All combine a three-, four-, or seven-day Inside Passage cruise with a land tour of top destinations in Alaska and the Yukon. Guests experience the wilderness, wildlife, native culture and history while traveling by luxury motor coach, rail and often river boat.

The new "Best of the Yukon" Expedition CruiseTour is designed to provide an in-depth Yukon experience. The itinerary is 12 days with a three-day, north-bound cruise or 13 days with a south-bound sailing that includes Glacier Bay. Guests visit Whitehorse, capital of the Yukon Territory, and Dawson City, a Klondike National Historic Site where they have three nights and two full days to explore its gold rush heritage, Tombstone Territorial Park and active adventures from rafting to hiking. The tour also visits Tok, Beaver Creek and Skagway in Alaska. It includes an exciting Yukon River cruise aboard the Yukon Queen II, Kluane National Park sightseeing, White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad with Lake Bennett excursion and the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve near Haines.

Holland America Line offers six Great Land Klondike CruiseTours ranging from 11 to 15 days that all feature Whitehorse, Dawson City and the Yukon Queen II river cruise between Dawson City and Eagle, Alaska. Four of the CruiseTours also include a scenic trip on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad via Lake Bennett between Whitehorse and Skagway. All feature an overnight in Denali National Park and the six-to-eight-hour Tundra Wilderness Tour within the park.

Four Great Land Wilderness CruiseTours ranging from 10 to 13 days offer itineraries that include Whitehorse. Here guests may enjoy a natural history presentation at the entrance to Kluane National Park or a summer sled dog demonstration by Uncommon Journeys. On two tours they can take an optional full-day excursion to Kluane, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. All Great Land Klondike and Wilderness CruiseTours are escorted by a tour director and include travel on deluxe Explorer Coaches.

Two Glacier Discovery CruiseTours offer extensive 19- or 20-day adventures that include two nights in Whitehorse and Dawson City and "Double Denali."

These presentations are part of Cunard's entertainment and award-winning enrichment programme, which showcases a variety of compelling entertainers - from new and emerging world-class talent to today's most enduring and iconic artists. Last August, Juilliard Jazz scholar Jumaane Smith became the first student from the school to take the stage onboard Queen Mary 2, presenting a trumpet recital that proved to be very popular with the voyage's guests.

Company	Today's Closing Price	Change (since last week)
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL)	33.42	+ 4.24%%
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL)	25.80	+ 0.85%
Star Cruises (HKSE:0678.HK)	1.97	- 3.55%

Cruise News Trivia Question:
Cunard's Queen Mary 2 carries a distictive item that was originally installed on board the original Queen Mary which is now serving as a hotel in Long Beach, California. What is this distinctive item?

Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to cruise2008@travelpage.com

Last Week's Question
This week we have another visual Cruise Trivia Question. The picture below was featured in a cruise brochure from the 1960's. Name the ship.

Answer - Picture is taking onboard the former SS Rotterdam V (Holland America Line) wich retired in 1997 en became Rembrandt for Premier Cruises. After Premier's banktruptcy she was laid up for many years but recently bought by Dutch investors who will bring here back to The Netherlands as a floating museum later this year.
courtesy of Bert Hagenaar, The Netherlands

Cruise News - January 4, 2010

The crew of the cruise ship alerted authorities and a search of the vessel's recent path was initiated. The U.S. Coast Guard dispatched a Coast Guard vessel, two planes and a helicopter to search 3,725 square miles without success.

While the search for Chhikara was underway, authorities began reviewing security camera footage and found footage that showed the woman going overboard from deck 11 on the port side of the ship at 4:11 a.m. Royal Caribbean said that Bahamian authorities who had reviewed the security footage determined that the woman had jumped overboard.

The U.S. Coast Guard called off its search for Chhikara on Saturday. Monarch of the Seas was on a five-day cruise to the Bahamas and had departed from Port Canaveral, Florida on December 28th.

In a bizarre twist, The Times of India reported that Indian authorities were investigating claims that Chhikara had been physically and mentally tortured for dowry by her husband and in-laws.

To ensure that the cleaning would be thorough enough, Fred.Olsen announced that the next cruise, a Canary Islands cruise scheduled to depart on Tuesday, January 5th, would be delayed would be delayed by twenty-four hours. This would give the onboard staff a full three days to clean and disinfect the ship.

The revised 12 night itinerary is detailed below. Passengers on D1001 will receive a pro rata refund from the cruise line. In addition , each passenger will receive a £50 per person credit to their on board account with our compliments.

Wed 06 Jan - Departs Southampton at 2000,
7th, 8th, 9th January - at sea
Sun 10 Jan - Funchal
Mon 11 Jan - Santa Cruz, La Palma
Tues 12 Jan - Santa Cruz, Tenerife
Wed 13 Jan - Arrecife, Lanzarote
14 Jan - at sea
Fri 15 Jan - Lisbon, Portugal
16th, 17th Jan - at sea
Mon 18 Jan - arrives into Southampton at 0630

Considered one of the most luxurious ships afloat, the intimate, all-suite vessel sports a sophisticated new décor, with rich fabrics and furnishings, much like those found in an elegant estate home.

"The makeover of Seven Seas Navigator gives the ship a stunning new look and feel," stated Mark Conroy, the line's president. "Along with the new Canyon Ranch SpaClub, I'm sure our loyal repeat guests will love the new dining options, including La Veranda, Prime 7 and the Patio Grill, as well as the redecorated main dining room."

Highlights at a Glance:

Prime 7 – a new restaurant – features a rich palette of green and gold, with supple leather seating, granite and burnished woods. The menu features prime-aged steaks and chops as well as poultry and fresh seafood.

Compass Rose – the ship's main dining room – has undergone a dramatic update with new window treatments, carpets and plush cranberry and camel armchairs. New signature china, silver and glassware complete the redesign.

La Veranda – with both indoor and al fresco seating – replaced Portofino's restaurant. New furniture, carpeting and draperies create an elegant ambiance. Food stations have been redesigned and enhanced for guests to enjoy lavish breakfast and lunch buffets. In the evening diners select from a menu of regionally themed specialties.

A New Pool Grill features a hot and cold buffet, panini sandwich station and coffee and dessert area in addition to a state-of-the-art barbecue grill. The Pool Bar, at the other end of the pool deck, was expanded and enhanced with a new ice cream station, fully equipped with machines for milkshakes and frappes.

Star's Lounge received a masterful makeover. A ruby-red carpet running the length of the entryway sets the stage for this glamorous club with furnishings that exude a classic Hollywood elegance.

Galileo's sports bold new interiors, window coverings and a sleek new bar area. An outdoor lounge has been added with stylish sofas and chaises overlooking the sea.

Navigator Lounge features rich hues of cappuccino, camel and navy accented by apple-green. The card room and library were redecorated and all public spaces throughout the ship were refreshed.

Canyon Ranch SpaClub: Last, but certainly not least, the former health club and an observation lounge have been transformed into the ship's new Canyon Ranch SpaClub. The serene and stylish wellness center has body and skin-care, massage and thalassotherapy treatment rooms, including a couples' suite. Added is an aerobics studio and new gymnasium with cardio and strength-training machines, both affording forward-facing, panoramic ocean views. Locker rooms, including his and hers sauna and steam rooms, have been updated as has the full-service beauty salon, which features new wood cabinetry and granite accents. A juice bar and relaxation lounge are additional SpaClub amenities.

Seven Seas Navigator will operate seven- to 11-night cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America this winter, followed by a summer series of seven-night Alaska cruises between Vancouver and Anchorage. Upon completion of the Alaska season, the ship embarks on a 96-night Grand Asia Pacific cruise.

Additionally, Carnival will be the exclusive cruise line advertiser during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games with the new spots running throughout 17 days of the Olympic broadcast period on the NBC, MSNBC, CNBC and USA networks. Carnival will also be the exclusive sponsor of the athletes' section on NBCOlympics.com, featuring custom videos of the Olympic competitors.

The first TV spot (http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid59232924001) showcases the fun of a Carnival cruise through the eyes of a teenager who watches as her father leaves his email, computer and cell phone behind, getting lost in the joys of dancing, poolside shenanigans and family fun, Carnival-style.

Another spot, "Gangway," captures the moment of transformation that happens to a Carnival guest when he/she crosses the bridge and goes from land to sea, leaving the everyday worries and routine of today back onshore.

"Everybody In" celebrates the one-armed photo -- that photo everyone wants to be in, so someone ends up holding the camera with one arm while posing with the group -- all with the goal of highlighting the feeling of fun that is true to the Carnival experience.

"The new work does a great job of portraying the social and participatory nature of the Carnival vacation experience, capturing those moments that make our cruises so uniquely memorable and enjoyable for our guests," said Jim Berra, chief marketing officer for Carnival Cruise Lines.

"We leveraged truisms about the brand and about our Carnival loyalists to communicate moments that capture quintessential Carnival fun," said Pete Favat, chief creative officer at Arnold. "People who want to have pure fun on a vacation will see themselves in the work, and that connection should help propel interest."

Roger Baldacci served as executive creative director and Paul Renner as creative director. Production company Anonymous Content, with director Christian Loubek, filmed the commercials. The spots will begin airing the week of January 4 on ABC, CBS and NBC in a wide variety of programming such as Today Show, Good Morning America, The Office, Modern Family, NCIS: LA and The Mentalist.

The steel structural frame of the two-story, 52,000 square-foot Broadway Pier Cruise Ship Terminal is being erected on the pier near the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive (map) in San Diego. The delivery of 1,200 tons of structural steel, equivalent to 2.5 million pounds, fabricated in the California cities of Santa Ana and Corona, began arriving December 14 and continues to be trucked in daily.

A crane with a 70-ton capacity is on the pier to set the steel columns in place for the terminal building. Columns for the building's frame will be 44-feet tall and weigh five tons each.

"Installation of the steel is anticipated to be complete at the end of February. Early October is the anticipated completion of the building, with the first cruise ship set to utilize the facility in December 2010," said Mark McIntire, Project Manager for the Port of San Diego project.

The construction has created more than 100 jobs.

"There are 50 tradesmen on the job site, another 25 to 50 fabricating materials offsite, 25 to 50 consultants on everything from engineering, to permitting, to the management of construction. This project is being completed at no cost to the taxpayers," said McIntire.

Designed by Bermello Ajamil & Partners and constructed by Jaynes Corporation, the project is being built at a cost of $21.1 million. A construction web cam is available for the public to view the project as it evolves..

The two-story Broadway Pier cruise ship terminal can accommodate 2,600 passengers. The terminal will include offices for the U.S. Coast Guard and Customs & Border Protection. The facility will be the Port's first "green" building and is being designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. LEED certification is a national recognition denoting that a project is designed with sustainable materials and efficiencies in water and energy demand. On days when cruise ships aren't docked at the pier, the facility can be used for community gatherings, special events and public viewing of San Diego Bay.

Company	Today's Closing Price	Change (since last week)
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL)	32.06	- 0.59%
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL)	25.80/FONT>	+ 0.54%
Star Cruises (HKSE:0678.HK)	1.97	+ 5.91%

Cruise News Trivia Question:

Question - This week we have another visual Cruise Trivia Question. The picture below was featured in a cruise brochure from the 1960's. Name the ship:

Click here for a larger version of the picture.

Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to cruise2008@travelpage.com

Last Week's Question
Which cruise ship survived being struck by a 100 foot high rogue wave while approaching Casablanca during her world cruise of 1976? She rolled an estimated 40 degrees but was able to right herself.

Answer - The ship in question is the Rotterdam (V) of Holland America Line.
coucourtesy of Armand Mantia

Cruise News - December 28, 2009

"The delivery of Silver Spirit is an important milestone for our company and represents our commitment to the development of the Silversea brand," said Amerigo Perasso, Silversea's president and chief executive officer. "With her Art Deco touches lending a timeless elegance, this new flagship of our fleet represents an important evolution in the design of our vessels."

Perasso said Silver Spirit offers all of Silversea's signature luxury amenities, plus more space, more dining options and other unique features. "Although Silver Spirit is larger than her sister ships, she has the same intimate feel, relaxed ambiance, and sense of camaraderie so treasured by our international clientele," he said. "I'm sure guests sailing on this maiden voyage, many of whom are repeat guests of Silversea, will feel right at home."

Perasso said Silversea has heavily invested over the past few years in expanding and upgrading its fleet, a decision that helped the line achieve record bookings this year. He said Silversea will close 2009 with more than 70 percent of next year's revenue plan already in the books.

Silver Spirit was built by Fincantieri and V. Ships and designed by architect Giacomo Mortola. At 36,000 tons, and accommodating 540 guests, the ship has the largest suites in the Silversea fleet -- with 95 percent featuring a private veranda -- and one of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea. The onboard décor reflects a sophisticated 1930s Art Deco ambiance to the public spaces, highlights of which include an indoor/outdoor spa measuring over 8,300 square feet (770 square meters), a resort-style pool, four whirlpools, and a choice of six dining venues including Seishin, showcasing Asian-fusion cuisine, and the innovative Stars Supper Club, offering trendsetting menus and all-night entertainment.

The inventory with new categorization will open for booking during the first quarter of 2010, making it easier for travel agents and guests to locate and book specialty staterooms, including aft-facing balconies and mini-suites, multi-occupancy family accommodations, and those staterooms which allow private courtyard access. Existing bookings only on Pride of America will be reprocessed.

The primary stateroom categories now include Suites (S), Mini-suites (M), Balconies (B), Ocean-views (O), Insides (I) and Studios (T) on Norwegian Epic. Each primary stateroom category letter is now either followed by a number to note it as a specialty stateroom, i.e. a B1 is an aft-facing Balcony; or with a letter to note it as a standard stateroom, i.e. a BA is a mid-ship Balcony.

Travel agents should receive deck plans with the new categorization by the start of the new year.

"As far as sea conditions allow, our expedition team will ensure that the bravest of our guests are able to satisfy their thirst for adventure in the water," states Hurtigruten product coordinator Jørn Henriksen. Ideal for those travelers who prefer to bring home more than t-shirts and tans, the dip in the polar waters is something that truly stands out when it comes to bragging - and the Polar Dip Certificate awarded to each participant provides needed verification.

During Antarctica's summer months, guests aboard Hurtigruten's deluxe expedition ship, MV Fram, can enjoy the remarkably refreshing icy waters of one of the largest natural harbours in the world -- off the volcanic Deception Island. The average temperature of this natural ocean pool is a bracing zero degrees Celsius. However, geothermic activity does mean that bathers can occasionally feel a 'comfortable' current of water above freezing.

During the North Pole's summer, guests aboard the same ship can entertain a quick jump into the waters of Spitsbergen's Magdelenefjord, avoiding the icebergs, of course; or for those spending 8 to 15 days exploring Greenland, a brief splash in the sea around Uummannaq, a small town 360 miles north of the polar circle and site of the annual Ice Golf World Championship.

If a swim in ice-free waters is preferred (due solely to the Gulf Stream), Hurtigruten offers a Norwegian Coastal Voyage cruise extension that makes its way to Norway's Vardø on the Barents Sea, where guests can float in a survival suit while their team leader dives for the evening's meal of King Crab - a wonderful way to combine a sea frolic with the need to catch dinner.

Windstar's Signature Collection Host Series features distinguished guests and lecturers throughout the 2010 season, including Bigelow. Bigelow will discuss how she creates extraordinary chocolates during a lecture and will conduct chocolate tastings. She will also host an exclusive shore excursion to the Gay-Odin Chocolate Factory in Naples, Italy where guests will enjoy a guided tour and chocolate tasting.

Bigelow is considered one of the best chocolatiers in the country and has been credited for sparking the artisan chocolate renaissance in America. Fran's Chocolates offers a selection of luxurious chocolate confections and signature truffles created with the finest, all-natural, local and organic ingredients handmade daily in small batches with refined techniques. Bigelow's cookbook "Pure Chocolate" won a "Best Chocolate Cookbook in the United States" award from Gourmand World Cookbook Awards and was a James Beard Foundation Cookbook Award finalist. Further accolades include "Ten Best Cookbooks of 2004" by Food & Wine magazine and the "Best Dessert Cookbook" by People magazine. For more information on Fran's Chocolates, visit www.franschocolates.com.

Wind Surf's 7-day Rome to Rome itinerary includes ports in Porto-Vecchio, France; Messina, Italy; Sorrento, Italy; Capri, Italy; and Ischia, Italy. Cruise fares start at $1,749 per person, based on double occupancy.

Wind Surf accommodates 312 guests and offers deluxe, oceanview staterooms that include beds with luxury linens and mattresses, flat-screen TV and DVD player, Bose SoundDock speakers for Apple iPods, waffle-weave robes with slippers and sumptuous L'Occitane products. Suites also include an extra bath, TV and sitting area. Bridge Suites give guests the additional luxury of a spacious private living room and relaxing whirlpool spa. Culinary wonders abound in Wind Surf's The Restaurant, Degrees, Le Marché and Candles. Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate Windstar's complimentary waterskiing, windsurfing, sailing and kayaking from the ship's water sports platform.

Company	Today's Closing Price	Change (since last week)
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL)	32.25	- 0.37%
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL)	25.94/FONT>	+ 0.08%
Star Cruises (HKSE:0678.HK)	1.86	+ 2.20%

Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which cruise ship survived being struck by a 100 foot high rogue wave while approaching Casablanca during her world cruise of 1976? She rolled an estimated 40 degrees but was able to right herself.

Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to cruise2008@travelpage.com

Last Week's Question
Which cruise ship survived being struck by a 100 foot high rogue wave while approaching Casablanca during her world cruise of 1976? She rolled an estimated 40 degrees but was able to right herself.

Answer - The ship in question is the Rotterdam (V) of Holland America Line.
coucourtesy of Armand Mantia